Podcasts Culture Expedition National Parks Place of Refuge: Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Place of Refuge: Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Published: May 6, 2020, 7:51 a.m.

Overview: In this launch episode, Junior Ranger Sienna describes the family’s visit to their first of five parks sites on the Big Island: Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park.  It is here that the Junior Rangers begin their Hawai`i Island Junior Ranger Adventure Book and mom completes her first Kapuna Ranger booklet. By speaking to a Ranger, volunteers, and a cultural demonstrator, the family begins to understand the historical and cultural importance of the Place of Refuge.

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Details: The first site the family visited on the Big Island of Hawaii was Pu`uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.  Located on the west coast of the island, literally just steps away from the famous snorkeling site, 2 step

Learning what Pu`uhonua O Hōnaunau means in English helps one understand the significance and history of the place.  Puʻuhonua means place of refuge. As a place of refuge, those who broke kapu, the ancient Hawaiian sacred laws, would be protected here. And in times of battle, defeated warriors and civilians would also seek protection here as anyone seeking shelter here could not be harmed.

The place of refuge itself was enclosed by the Great Wall, an impressive 965 ft long masonry wall, the remains of which can still be viewed.

One can also visit the Royal Grounds, important residential and ceremonial sites for the Hawaiian royals, the ali’i.

For all three of us, the Junior Ranger program is always one of the highlights.  We had the good fortune to speak to Ranger Julia shortly upon arrival who explained more about the program and the features of the site.

We were lucky to be there on a cultural demonstration day and are grateful to the volunteers who give their time to share Hawaiian culture with visitors, and also took the time to speak to us.